Construction Law and Contracts

Online

In order to avoid costly delays and litigation that can arise during a project, construction managers need to be aware of the legal issues that can arise in the construction process. This course will provide an overview of the laws concerning contracting and construction. Through lecture, a review of case law and engaging Q&As, you will gain substantive knowledge in the various areas of construction law, including private and public contracts, bidding, mechanic's lien, stop notice and payment bonds, contractors’ license law, agency, business organizations, bankruptcy and dispute resolution. By the end of this course, you will possess a framework for recognizing, understanding and mitigating legal issues that could arise during one of your construction projects.

Learning Outcomes

  • Analyze contracts and identify risks associated with contract language and clauses
  • Differentiate the rights and liabilities of contractors and design professionals, including mechanic's lien, stop notice and payment bond
  • Evaluate issues of agency, vicarious liability and contract responsibility
  • Differentiate between mediation, arbitration and court trials for dispute resolution

Skills You Will Gain

  • Contract Law
  • Contract risk assessment
  • Contract composition
  • Bankruptcy law
  • Legal research

Course Format and Pacing
This is an online course delivered through Canvas, UC Davis CPE’s learning management system. Course materials—including video lectures, readings, assignments, and discussion forums—are released on a structured, week-by-week schedule. Students move through the course together, with regular due dates to support consistent progress and engagement. Most learners can expect to spend approximately 10–12 hours per week engaging with course content and completing assignments.

Academic Units
4
Section Number
253CNM103
Instruction Method
Online class

Association Credits

State Bar of California (MCLE)
40.00 MCLE hours

Section Notes

Access to your course in Canvas will be available 7 days before the course start date. Please note that course start and end dates, as well as live sessions (if applicable), are subject to change.

Enrollment Policies

Drop requests (withdraw with a refund) will be approved, less a $30 processing fee, if the request is received before the refund deadline. Click here to view complete enrollment policy information including details on withdrawals and transfers.  
 
Refund Deadline: 1/27/2026. Refunds and/or enrollment transfers will not be approved after this date.   
 
Students enrolling after the first day of class are expected to reach out to their instructor to make sure they receive all content and are on track with the course. 

Technical Requirements

To ensure your success in this course, please review our technical requirements page at online learning.

Discounts

CAAA Member Discount

Current members of the Cal Aggie Alumni Association (CAAA) and other UC alumni associations receive 10% off the course fee of one course per quarter, not to exceed $100. If you don't have your discount code, contact CAAA at alumni@ucdavis.edu to request it.